An accident on the railway occurred at Bemerton on Monday morning, resulting in the death of John Thomas, whose full identity has not yet been traced. An inquest was held by Mr Trethowan at the residence of Mr Fry on Monday.

Sidney Frank Churchill, lodging-house keeper, of Winchester Street, said he had known Thomas as an occasional lodger for several years. He stayed at his house on December 24th. “No Fixed Abode” was written on the registration form. He thought he was working on some public works, or at a camp near Salisbury.

Henry Bowles, an engine driver, of 178, Devizes Road, said that at 4.35am he was driving an engine from Salisbury to Wilton to pick up a train there. He noticed nothing unusual on the journey. It was very dark and the moon did not give any light on the track.

Samuel Jenkins, a platelayer, of 21, Fancy Row, Wilton, said that near Skew Bridge he saw a body lying in the four foot way. He reported the matter to the police after moving the body on one side.

PC Titt, stationed at Bemerton, deposed to searching the body but there was nothing to identify the man. He was between 50 and 60 years of age.